What is a Portugal work visa?

In reality, there is no official term for a visa that permits working in Portugal. The Portuguese work visa can be categorized into two types: a short-stay visa allowing work for up to 90 days and a temporary residence permit allowing work for more than 3 months.

The temporary residence permit can be extended for an additional 3 years after 2 years, and after 5 years, one can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. Once you become a Portuguese citizen, you no longer need to apply for a “Portugal work visa.”

In this article, we will use the term “Portugal work visa” for consistency and clarity.

Book cheap flights to Portugal

Who requires a Portugal work visa?

If you are a resident of an EU country or a member state of the European Union, you do not require a specific visa to work in Portugal. Individuals from these nations can travel, work, and reside in Portugal without a visa. However, if you plan to stay in Portugal for more than 3 months, you will need to obtain a Certificado de Registo (Residence Certificate).

For citizens who are not from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, it is likely that you will need to apply for a Portugal work visa in order to work in Portugal. The first step is to find a job in Portugal. Once you have secured employment, you can proceed with the process of applying for a Portuguese work visa.

Portugal work visa requirements

Before initiating the application process for a Portugal work visa, it is necessary to have a work contract from your Portuguese employer. The contract should clearly state the company, location, and type of work you will be engaged in while in Portugal.

Once you have obtained a work permit from your employer, you can proceed to apply for your Portugal work visa. Below is a list of the documents typically required when applying for a Portugal work visa:

a filled-out Portuguese visa application form

your valid passport

passport-size pictures, following Portugal visa picture guidelines

proof of sufficient funds to sustain yourself

obtain your criminal records from your country of residence. If you have resided in another country for more than one year, you may also need to provide criminal records from that country

submit a document authorizing the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) to access your Portuguese criminal records

proof of health insurance

proof of accommodation in Portugal

your employment contract

if you are already in Portugal: Present proof of legal entry into Portuguese territories, such as a valid visa

if you are applying from a country other than your country of origin: Submit proof of legal stay in that country, such as a valid work permit or visa